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Rio 2016 Olympic Closing Ceremony - Rain System

 

Client: Cerimonias Cariocas 2016, via Event FX Limited

Date: 2016

Location: Brazil

 

Brief

 

During the Rio Olympic Closing Ceremony, a Headline Talent performer was to perform on a stage in front of the Olympic Cauldron with their performance symbolically triggering the extinguishing of the Flame. The Creative intention was to produce a realistic rainfall above, and on the performer, which increases during their performance and culminates in a torrential downpour which gives the impression of extinguishing the Flame.

 

Technical Solution

 

We designed a high-volume modular system for installation in the stadium as the exact location was unknown until the vendor was on site. This comprised of two bulk water tanks, each with stainless steel 3 phase pumps, heavy-duty supply and return hoses and manifolds with flowrate and solenoid control to a range of adjustable outlet nozzles.

 

On site it was found the bulk water tanks had to be placed 200m from the rain outlet with a 30m vertical rise which our robust solution was able to supply comfortably. The water was heated and chemically treated to meet safety regulations and satisfy the comfort of the performer.

 

Services

 

Prototyping, Metalwork, laser cutting, product assembly, hydraulics, Special Effects design.